Chop and deseed dates, soak in 5 tbsp water, add ½ tsp soda to it, keep aside for 1 hour.
Sieve flour and baking powder, beat butter and sugar till light and fluffy, add eggs 1 at a time, beat well, fold in flour, little by little, add vanilla essence.
Fold the chopped walnuts and the date mixture, grease a loaf pan very well, spread the mixture in it, bake in a preheated oven on 180 degree C for 35 to 40 minutes, serve with thin custard.